Gearing questions

Not garage friendly. Expert friendly.

4wd requires both axles. Depending on location and shop rates, I'd guess $2 - 2.5k

Makes those big tires really pricey.

 

I agree with this up until you get to the high end rpm numbers but respect your opinion. I’ll have to try cruising around in s4 to see what those higher rpms do to my mpg. That’s a really good idea that I hadn’t considered so thank you!
I’m not trying to live over 2300 rpm on the highway while doing long hauls personally but respect the different point of view. I’ll never be above 35” actual height, and feel like 4.88 is right where I want to be in terms of a fuel efficient 6th gear

 

I know this goes against what I originally was saying, but I don't think running 2500-3000 RPM's will be detrimental to fuel economy.

I use S4 on the freeway in my 4Runner, so I'm close to 3000 RPM's at 80 MPH. I can get around 15 MPG doing this, if I leave the roof basket off. With the basket on, I lose about 10%. At <70 mph, I can get around 17-18.

This is with full armor + ~200# of constant weight , and loaded with camping gear. I'm also on 295/70/17 MT's.

I really think the constant downshifting ends up hurting the mileage more than just picking a lower gear and sticking with it.